Transaction security apparatus and method

1. A transaction security apparatus, comprising: at least one of an input device and a data entry device for at least one of inputting and entering transaction information regarding a transaction into a first communication device; a processing device for processing the transaction information and for generating a first signal corresponding to the transaction; and a transmitter for transmitting the first signal to a second communication device independently of any processing of the transaction by a central transaction processing computer, wherein the second communication device is associated with an individual account holder, and wherein the second communication device provides information to the individual account holder regarding the transaction, and further wherein the second communication device is at least one of a beeper, a pager, a telephone, a two-way pager, a reply pager, a home computer, a personal computer, a personal communication device, a personal communication services device, a television, an interactive television, a digital television, a personal digital assistant, a display telephone, a video telephone, a watch, a cellular telephone, a wireless telephone, a mobile telephone, a display cellular telephone, and a facsimile machine.

2. A transaction security method, comprising: at least one of inputting and entering transaction information regarding a transaction on an account into a first communication device; processing the transaction information; generating a first signal corresponding to the transaction; and transmitting the first signal to a second communication device independently of any processing of the transaction by a central transaction processing computer, wherein the second communication device is associated with an individual account holder, and wherein the second communication device provides information to the individual account holder regarding the transaction, and further wherein the second communication device is at least one of a beeper, a pager, a telephone, a two-way pager, a reply pager, a home computer, a personal computer, a personal communication device, a personal communication services device, a television, an interactive television, a digital television, a personal digital assistant, a display telephone, a video telephone, a watch, a cellular telephone, a wireless telephone, a mobile telephone, a display cellular telephone, and a facsimile machine.

3. A transaction security apparatus, comprising: a receiver, wherein the receiver is associated with a first communication device, and wherein the receiver receives a first signal, wherein the first signal is transmitted from a second communication device to the receiver independently of any processing of the transaction by a central transaction processing computer, wherein the first communication device is associated with an individual account holder, and further wherein the first signal contains information regarding a transaction occurring on an account, wherein the first communication device is at least one of a beeper, a pager, a telephone, a two-way pager, a reply pager, a home computer, a personal computer, a personal communication device, a personal communication services device, a television, an interactive television, a digital television, a personal digital assistant, a display telephone, a video telephone, a watch, a cellular telephone, a wireless telephone, a mobile telephone, a display cellular telephone, and a facsimile machine, and a processor for processing the first signal and for generating a second signal, wherein the second signal provides information regarding the transaction to the individual account holder.

4. A transaction security method, comprising: receiving a first signal from a first communication device, wherein the first signal is received at a second communication device, wherein the first signal is transmitted from the first communication device to the second communication device independently of any processing of the transaction by a central transaction processing computer, wherein the second communication device is associated with an individual account holder, and wherein the first signal contains information regarding a transaction occurring on an account, and further wherein the second communication device is at least one of a beeper, a pager, a telephone, a two-way pager, a reply pager, a home computer, a personal computer, a personal communication device, a personal communication services device, a television, an interactive television, a digital television, a personal digital assistant, a display telephone, a video telephone, a watch, a cellular telephone, a wireless telephone, a mobile telephone, a display cellular telephone, and a facsimile machine; processing the first signal; generating a second signal; and providing or displaying at least a portion of the information contained in the second signal, wherein the at least a portion of the information contained in the second signal provides information regarding the transaction to the individual account holder.

5. A transaction security apparatus, comprising: a memory device for storing a limitation or restriction on a use of an account, wherein the account is capable of being utilized in transactions involving the purchase of goods and services, wherein the limitation or restriction is transmitted to a receiver from a communication device associated with an individual account holder, and wherein the limitation or restriction is automatically received by the receiver, and further wherein the limitation or restriction is automatically stored in the memory device; and a central processing device for processing an authorization request for a transaction on the account, wherein the central processing device utilizes the limitation or restriction automatically stored in the memory device in processing the authorization request, wherein the central processing device generates a signal containing information for authorizing or disallowing the transaction.

6. The apparatus of claim 5 , further comprising: a transmitter for transmitting a second signal to a communication device associated with the individual account holder, wherein the communication device receives the second signal, and further wherein the second signal contains information regarding the transaction.

7. The apparatus of claim 6 , wherein the communication device which receives the second signal is at least one of a telephone, a two-way pager, a reply pager, a home computer, a personal computer, a personal communication device, a personal communication services device, a television, an interactive television, a digital television, a personal digital assistant, a display telephone, a video telephone, a watch, a cellular telephone, a wireless telephone, a mobile telephone, a display cellular telephone, and a facsimile machine.

8. The apparatus of claim 6 , further comprising: a receiver for receiving a third signal, wherein the third signal is transmitted to the receiver from the communication device which receives the second signal, and further wherein the third signal contains information for authorizing or disallowing the transaction.

9. The apparatus of claim 8 , wherein the central processing device processes the third signal and determines whether the transaction is authorized or disallowed.

10. The apparatus of claim 8 , wherein the central processing device processes the third signal and determines whether the transaction is authorized or disallowed, and further wherein the central processing device transmits a fourth signal to the transaction authorization device, wherein the fourth signal contains information for at least one of authorizing the transaction, disallowing the transaction, and canceling the transaction.

11. The apparatus of claim 6 , wherein the transmitter transmits the second signal to a plurality of communication devices which receive the second signal, wherein the plurality of communication devices which receive the second signal are associated with the individual account holder, and further wherein the transmitter transmits the second signal to the plurality of communication devices which receive the second signal at least one of simultaneously and sequentially.

12. The apparatus of claim 5 , wherein the authorization request is transmitted to the apparatus from at least one of a credit card authorization device, a charge card authorization device, and a debit card authorization device.

13. The apparatus of claim 5 , wherein the authorization request is transmitted to the apparatus from at least one of a currency card transaction authorization device and a smart card authorization device.

14. The apparatus of claim 5 , wherein the authorization request is transmitted to the apparatus from at least one of a point-of-sale authorization device, a point-of-sale authorization terminal, and a transaction authorization device.

15. The apparatus of claim 5 , wherein the transaction is at least one of a point-of-sale transaction, a telephone order, a mail order, an Internet transaction, and an on-line transaction.

16. The apparatus of claim 5 , wherein the transaction involves a use of at least one of a credit card, a charge card, a debit card, a currency card, and a smart card.

17. The apparatus of claim 5 , wherein the apparatus is utilized on or over at least one of a telecommunication system, a satellite communication system, a radio communication system, a digital communication system, a personal communications services system, the Internet, and the World Wide Web.

18. The apparatus of claim 5 , wherein information contained in the second signal is transmitted in at least one of communication transmission, a telephone call, a voice message, a voice mail message, a beeper message, a pager message, a facsimile message, and an answering service message.

19. The apparatus of claim 5 , further comprising: a transmitter for transmitting an electronic mail message to a network computer associated with the individual account holder, wherein the electronic mail message contains information regarding the transaction.

20. The apparatus of claim 5 , further comprising: a transmitter for transmitting a second signal to at least one of a communication device which receives the second signal, a computer, a radio, a car radio, and a television, wherein the second signal contains information regarding the transaction, and further wherein the normal operation of the at least one of a communication device which receives the second signal, a computer, a radio, a car radio, and a television, is interrupted to convey the information to the individual account holder.

21. The apparatus of claim 5 , wherein the apparatus is programmed for at least one of automatic activation, self-activation, automatic operation, and self-operation.

22. The apparatus of claim 5 , wherein the apparatus is programmed to revert to a pre-established credit limit or spending limit.

23. The apparatus of claim 5 , wherein at least one of the communication device from which the limitation or restriction is received and the communication device which receives the second signal is utilized to program the apparatus to at least one of change a credit limit, decrease a credit limit, and increase a credit limit.

24. The apparatus of claim 5 , wherein the limitation or restriction involves at least one of types of transactions, goods or services which may be purchased, stores or service providers which may be authorized to accept a card associated with the account, limits on dollar amounts of transactions pertaining to each authorized at least one of vendor, seller, and service provider, daily spending limits, at least one of vendors, sellers, and service providers, with which a card associated with the account may be utilized, a geographical area or location within which the card associated with the account may be utilized, authorized times of account usage, and a limitation or restriction regarding at least one of an amount of a transaction, parties involved, geographical area, and times of allowed usage.

25. The apparatus of claim 5 , wherein the limitation or restriction involves at least one of a type of a transaction, a good, or a service which may be purchased, a store or a service provider which may be authorized to accept a card associated with the account, a limit on a dollar amount of a transaction pertaining to each authorized at least one of vendor, seller, and service provider, a daily spending limit, at least one of a vendor, a seller, and a service provider, with which a card associated with the account may be utilized, a geographical area or location within which the card associated with the account may be utilized, an authorized time of account usage, and a limitation or restriction regarding at least one of an amount of a transaction, a party involved, a geographical area, and a time of allowed usage.

26. The apparatus of claim 5 , wherein the communication device from which the limitation or restriction is received is at least one of a telephone, a touch-tone telephone, a two-way pager, a reply pager, a home computer, a personal computer, a personal communication device, a personal communication services device, a television, an interactive television, a digital television, a personal digital assistant, a display telephone, a video telephone, a watch, a cellular telephone, a wireless telephone, a mobile telephone, a display cellular telephone, and a facsimile machine.

27. The apparatus of claim 5 , wherein the apparatus comprises a plurality of computers or computer systems.

28. A transaction security apparatus, comprising: a memory device for storing a limitation or restriction on a use of an account, wherein the limitation or restriction is transmitted to a receiver from a communication device associated with an individual account holder, and wherein the limitation or restriction is automatically received by the receiver, and further wherein the limitation or restriction is automatically stored in the memory device; and a central processing device for processing an authorization request for a transaction on the account, wherein the authorization request is received from a transaction authorization device, wherein the transaction authorization device is utilized in conjunction with at least one of a credit card transaction, a charge card transaction, a debit card transaction, a currency card, and a smart card transaction, and further wherein the transaction device is located at a point-of-sale in a transaction involving an in-person transaction or at a location of at least one of a goods provider and a service provider in a transaction involving at least one of a telephone order, a mail order, an Internet transaction, and an on-line transaction, wherein the central processing device utilizes the limitation or restriction automatically stored in the memory device in processing the authorization request, and further wherein the central processing device generates a signal containing information for authorizing or disallowing the transaction.

29. The apparatus of claim 28 , further comprising: a transmitter for transmitting a second signal to a communication device associated with the individual account holder, wherein the communication device receives the second signal, and further wherein the second signal contains information regarding the transaction.

30. The apparatus of claim 29 , wherein the communication device which receives the second signal is at least one of a telephone, a two-way pager, a reply pager, a home computer, a personal computer, a personal communication device, a personal communication services device, a television, an interactive television, a digital television, a personal digital assistant, a display telephone, a video telephone, a watch, a cellular telephone, a wireless telephone, a mobile telephone, a display cellular telephone, and a facsimile machine.

31. The apparatus of claim 29 , further comprising: a receiver for receiving a third signal, wherein the third signal is received from the communication device which receives the second signal, and further wherein the third signal contains information for authorizing or disallowing the transaction.

32. The apparatus of claim 31 , wherein the central processing device processes the third signal and determines whether the transaction is authorized or disallowed.

33. The apparatus of claim 31 , wherein the central processing device processes the third signal and determines whether the transaction is authorized or disallowed, and further wherein the central processing device transmits a fourth signal to the transaction authorization device, wherein the fourth signal contains information for at least one of authorizing the transaction, disallowing the transaction, and canceling the transaction.

34. The apparatus of claim 29 , wherein the transmitter transmits the second signal to a plurality of communication devices which receive the second signal, wherein the plurality of communication devices which receive the second signal are associated with the individual account holder, and further wherein the transmitter transmits the second signal to the plurality of communication devices which receive the second signal at least one of simultaneously and sequentially.

35. The apparatus of claim 29 , wherein information contained in the second signal is transmitted to the communication device which receives the second signal in at least one of a communication transmission, a telephone call, a voice message, a voice mail message, a beeper message, a pager message, a facsimile message, and an answering service message.

36. The apparatus of claim 28 , wherein the authorization request is transmitted to the apparatus from at least one of a credit card transaction authorization device, a charge card authorization device, and a debit cad authorization device.

37. The apparatus of claim 28 , wherein the authorization request is transmitted to the apparatus from at least one of a currency card transaction authorization device and a smart authorization device.

38. The apparatus of claim 28 , wherein the authorization request is transmitted to the apparatus from at least one of a point-of-sale authorization device, a point-of-sale authorization terminal, and a transaction authorization device.

39. The apparatus of claim 28 , wherein the transaction is at least one of a point-of-sale transaction, a telephone order, a mail order, an Internet transaction, and an on-line transaction.

40. The apparatus of claim 28 , wherein the apparatus is utilized on or over at least one of a telecommunication system, a satellite communication system, a radio communication system, a digital communication system, a personal communications services system, the Internet, and the World Wide Web.

41. The apparatus of claim 28 , further comprising: a transmitter for transmitting an electronic mail message to a network computer associated with the individual account holder, wherein the electronic mail message contains information regarding the transaction.

42. The apparatus of claim 28 , further comprising: a transmitter for transmitting a second signal containing information regarding the transaction to at least one of a communication device which receives the second signal, a computer, a radio, a car radio, and a television, wherein the second signal contains information regarding the transaction, and further wherein the normal operation of the at least one of a communication device which receives the second signal, a computer, a radio, a car radio, and a television, is interrupted to convey the information to the individual account holder.

43. The apparatus of claim 28 , wherein the apparatus is programmed for at least one of automatic activation, self-activation, automatic operation, and self-operation.

44. The apparatus of claim 28 , wherein the apparatus is programmed to revert to a pre-established credit limit or spending limit.

45. The apparatus of claim 28 , wherein at least one of the communication device from which the limitation or restriction is received and the communication device which receives the second signal is utilized to perform the apparatus to at least one of change a credit limit, decrease a credit limit, and increase a credit limit.

46. The apparatus of claim 28 , wherein the limitation or restriction involves at least one of types of transactions, goods or services which may be purchased, stores or service providers which may be authorized to accept a card associated with the account, limits on dollar amounts of transactions pertaining to each authorized at least one vendor, seller, and service provider, daily spending limits, at least one of vendors, sellers, and service providers, with which a card associated with the account may be utilized, a geographical area or location within which the card associated with the account may be utilized, authorized times of account usage, and a limitation or restriction regarding at least one of an amount of a transaction, parties involved, geographical area, and times of allowed usage.

47. The apparatus of claim 28 , wherein the limitation or restriction involves at least one of a type of a transaction, a good or a service which may be purchased, a store or a service provider which may be authorized to accept a card associated with the account, a limit on a dollar amount of a transaction pertaining to each authorized at least one of vendor, seller, and service provider, a daily spending limit, at least one of a vendor, a seller, and a service provider, with which a card associated with the account may be utilized, a geographical area or location within which the card associated with the account may be utilized, an authorized time of account usage, and a limitation or restriction regarding at least one of an amount of a transaction, a party involved, a geographical area, and a time of allowed usage.

48. The apparatus of claim 28 , wherein the communication device from which the limitation or restriction is received is at least one of a telephone, a touch-tone telephone, a two-way pager, a reply pager, a home computer, a personal computer, a personal communication device, a personal communication services device, a television, an interactive television, a digital television, a personal digital assistant, a display telephone, a video telephone, a watch, a cellular telephone, a wireless telephone, a mobile telephone, a display cellular telephone, and a facsimile machine.

49. The apparatus of claim 28 , wherein the apparatus comprises a plurality of computers or computer systems.

50. A transaction security apparatus, comprising: a memory device for storing a limitation or restriction on a use of an account, wherein the limitation or restriction is transmitted to a receiver from a communication device associated with an individual account holder, and wherein the limitation or restriction includes information regarding a name of a party authorized to use the account and information regarding a spending a spending limit on the account, wherein the limitation or restriction is automatically received by the receiver, and further wherein the limitation or restriction is automatically stored in the memory device; and a central processing device for processing an authorization request for a transaction on the account, wherein the central processing device utilizes the limitation or restrcition automatically stored in the memory device, and further wherein the central processing device generates a signal containing information for authorizing or disallowing the transaction.

51. The apparatus of claim 50 , further comprising: a transmitter for transmitting a second signal to a communication device associated with the individual account holder, wherein the communication device receives the second signal, and further wherein the second signal contains information regarding the transaction.

52. The apparatus of claim 51 , wherein the communication device which receives the second signal is at least one of a telephone, a two-way pager, a reply pager, a home computer, a personal computer, a personal communication device, a personal communication services device, a television, an interactive television, a digital television, a personal digital assistant, a display telephone, a video telephone, a watch, a cellular telephone, a wireless telephone, a mobile telephone, a display cellular telephone, and a facsimile machine.

53. The apparatus of claim 51 , further comprising: a receiver for receiving a third signal from the communication device which receives the second signal, wherein the third signal contains information for authorizing or disallowing the transaction.

54. The apparatus of claim 53 , wherein the central processing device processes the third signal and determines whether the transaction is authorized or disallowed.

55. The apparatus of claim 53 , wherein the central processing device processes the third signal and determines whether the transaction is authorized or disallowed, and further wherein the central processing device at least one of authorizes the transaction, disallows the transaction, and cancels the transaction.

56. The apparatus of claim 51 , wherein the transmitter transmits the second signal to a plurality of communication devices which receive the second signal, wherein the plurality of communication devices which receive the second signal are associated with the individual account holder, and further wherein the transmitter transmits the second signal to the plurality of communication devices which receive the second signal at least one of simultaneously and sequentially.

57. The apparatus of claim 51 , wherein information contained in the second signal is transmitted to the communication device which receives the second signal in at least one of a communication transmission, a telephone call, a voice message, a voice mail message, a beeper message, a pager message, a facsimile message, and an answering service message.

58. The apparatus of claim 50 , wherein the authorization request is transmitted to the apparatus from at least one of a credit card transaction authorization device, a charge card authorization device, and a debit card authorization device.

59. The apparatus of claim 50 , wherein the authorization request is transmitted to the apparatus from at least one of a currency card transaction authorization device and a smart card authorization device.

60. The apparatus of claim 50 , wherein the authorization request is transmitted to the apparatus from at least one of a point-of-sale authorization device, a point-of-sale authorization terminal, and a transaction authorization device.

61. The apparatus of claim 50 , wherein the transaction is at least one of a point-of-sale transaction, a telephone order, a mail order, an Internet transaction, and an on-line transaction.

62. The apparatus of claim 50 , wherein the transaction involves a use of at least one of a credit card, a charge card, a debit card, a currency card, and a smart card.

63. The apparatus of claim 50 , wherein the apparatus is utilized on or over at least one of a telecommunication system, a satellite communication system, a radio communication system, a digital communication system, a personal communications services system, the Internet, and the World Wide Web.

64. The apparatus of claim 50 , further comprising: a transmitter for transmitting an electronic mail message to a network computer associated with the individual account holder, wherein the electronic mail message contains information regarding the transaction.

65. The apparatus of claim 50 , further comprising: a transmitter for transmitting a second signal containing information regarding the transaction to at least one of a communication device which receives the second signal, a computer, a radio, a car radio, and a television, wherein the second signal contains information regarding the transaction, and further wherein the normal operation of the at least one of a communication device which receives the second signal, a computer, a radio, a car radio, and a television, is interrupted to convey the information to the individual account holder.

66. The apparatus of claim 50 , wherein the apparatus is programmed for at least one of automatic activation, self-activation, automatic operation, and self-operation.

67. The apparatus of claim 50 , wherein the apparatus is programmed to revert to a pre-established credit limit or spending limit.

68. The apparatus of claim 50 , wherein the one of the communication which transmits the limitation or restriction to the receiver and the communication device which receives the second signal is utilized to program the apparatus to at least one of change a credit limit, decrease a credit limit, and increase a credit limit.

69. The apparatus of claim 50 , wherein the communication device from which the limitation or restriction is received is at least one of a telephone, a touch-tone telephone, a two-way pager, a reply pager, a home computer, a personal computer, a personal communication device, a personal communication services device, a television, an interactive television, a digital television, a personal digital assistant, a display telephone, a video telephone, a watch, a cellular telephone, a wireless telephone, a mobile telephone, a display cellular telephone, and a facsimile machine.

70. The apparatus of claim 50 , wherein the apparatus comprises a plurality of computers or computer systems.

71. A transaction security apparatus, comprising: a memory device for storing a limitation or restriction on a use of an account, wherein the limitation or restriction is transmitted to a receiver from a communication device associated with an individual account holder, wherein the limitation or restriction includes information regarding a name of a party authorized to use the account and information regarding a spending limit on the account, and wherein the limitation or restriction is automatically received by the receiver, and further wherein the limitation or restriction is automatically stored in the memory device; a central processing device for processing an authorization request for a transaction on the account, wherein the central processing device utilizes the limitation or restriction automatically stored in the memory device in processing the authorization request, wherein the central processing device generates a first signal containing information for authorizing or disallowing the transaction, and further wherein the central processing device generates a second signal containing information regarding the transaction; and a transmitter for transmitting the second signal to a communication device associated with the individual account holder.

72. The apparatus of claim 71 , wherein the authorization request is transmitted to the apparatus from at least one of a credit card authorization device, a charge card authorization device, and a debit card authorization device.

73. The apparatus of claim 71 , wherein the authorization request is transmitted to the apparatus from at least one of a currency card authorization device and a smart card authorization device.

74. The apparatus of claim 71 , further comprising: a receiver for receiving a third signal from the communication device which receives the second signal, wherein the third signal contains information for authorizing or disallowing the transaction.

75. The apparatus of claim 71 , wherein the authorization request is transmitted to the apparatus from at least one of a point-of-sale authorization device, a point-of-sale authorization terminal, and a transaction authorization device.

76. The apparatus of claim 71 , wherein the transaction is at least one of a point-of-sale transaction, a telephone order, a mail order, an Internet transaction, and an on-line transaction.

77. The apparatus of claim 71 , wherein the transaction involves a use of at least one of a credit card, a charge card, a debit card, a currency card, and a smart card.

78. The apparatus of claim 71 , wherein the apparatus is utilized on or over at least one of a telecommunication system, a satellite communication system, a radio communication system, a digital communication system, a personal communications services system, the Internet, and the World Wide Web.

79. The apparatus of claim 71 , wherein the transmitter transmits the second signal to a plurality of communication devices which receive the second signal, wherein the plurality of communication devices which receive the second signal are associated with the individual account holder, and further wherein the transmitter transmits the second signal to the plurality of communication devices which receive the second signal at least one simultaneously and sequentially.

80. The apparatus of claim 71 , wherein information contained in the second signal is transmitted to the communication device which receives the second signal in at least one of a communication transmission, a telephone call, a voice message, a voice mail message, a beeper message, a pager message, a facsimile message, and an answering service message.

81. The apparatus of claim 71 , wherein the transmitter transmits an electronic mail message to a network computer associated with the individual account holder, wherein the electronic mail message contains information regarding the transaction.

82. The apparatus of claim 74 , wherein the central processing device processes the third signal and determines whether the transaction is authorized or disallowed.

83. The apparatus of claim 74 , wherein the central processing device processes the third signal and determines whether the transaction is authorized or disallowed, and further wherein the central processing device at least one of authorizes the transaction, disallows the transaction, and cancels the transaction.

84. The apparatus of claim 71 , wherein the transmitter transmits the second signal to at least one of the communication device which receives the second signal, a computer, a radio, a car radio, and a television, and further wherein the normal operation of the at least one of the communication device which receives the second signal, a computer, a radio, a car radio, and a television, is interrupted to convey the information to the individual account holder.

85. The apparatus of claim 71 , wherein the communication device from which the limitation or restriction is received is at least one of a telephone, a touch-tone telephone, a two-way pager, a reply pager, a home computer, a personal computer, a personal communication device, a personal communication services device, a television, an interactive television, a digital television, a personal digital assistant, a display telephone, a video telephone, a watch, a cellular telephone, a wireless telephone, a mobile telephone, a display cellular telephone, and a facsimile machine.

86. The apparatus of claim 71 , wherein the apparatus comprises a plurality of computers or computer systems.

87. A transaction security apparatus, comprising: a memory device for storing a limitation or restriction on a use of an account, wherein the account is at least one of a credit card account, a charge card account, a debit card account, a currency card account, a smart card account, a checking account, a savings account, and an automated teller machine account, wherein the limitation or restriction is transmitted to a receiver from a communication device associated with an individual account holder, and wherein the limitation or restriction is automatically received by the receiver, and further wherein the limitation or restriction is automatically stored in the memory device; a central processing device for processing an authorization request for a transaction on the account, wherein the central processing device utilizes the limitation or restriction automatically stored in the memory device in processing the authorization request, wherein the central processing device generates a first signal containing information for authorizing or disallowing the transaction, and further wherein the central processing device generates a second signal containing information regarding the transaction; and a transmitter for transmitting the second signal to a communication device associated with the individual account holder, wherein the second signal is transmitted to the communication device in real-time.

88. The apparatus of claim 87 , wherein the authorization request is transmitted to the apparatus from at least one of a credit card authorization device, a charge card authorization device, and a debit card authorization device.

89. The apparatus of claim 87 , wherein the authorization request is transmitted to the apparatus from at least one of a currency card authorization device and a smart card authorization device.

90. The apparatus of claim 87 , further comprising: a receiver for receiving a third signal from the communication device which receives the second signal, wherein the third signal contains information for authorizing or disallowing the transaction.

91. The apparatus of claim 90 , wherein the central processing device processes the third signal and determines whether the transaction is authorized or disallowed.

92. The apparatus of claim 90 , wherein the central processing device processes the third signal and determines whether the transaction is authorized or disallowed, and further wherein the central processing device at least one of authorizes the transaction, disallows the transaction, and cancels the transaction.

93. The apparatus of claim 90 , wherein the transmitter transmits the second signal to at least one of a communication device which receives the second signal, a computer, a radio, a car radio, and a television, and further wherein the normal operation of the at least one of a communication device which receives the second signal, a computer, a radio, a car radio, and a television, is interrupted to convey the information to the individual account holder.

94. The apparatus of claim 87 , wherein the authorization request is transmitted to the apparatus from at least one of a point-of-sale authorization device, a point-of-sale authorization terminal, and a transaction authorization device.

95. The apparatus of claim 87 , wherein the transaction is at least one of a point-of-sale transaction, a telephone order, a mail order, an Internet transaction, and an on-line transaction.

96. The apparatus of claim 87 , wherein the apparatus is utilized on or over at least one of a telecommunication system, a satellite communication system, a radio communication system, a digital communication system, a personal communications services system, the Internet, and the World Wide Web.

97. The apparatus of claim 87 , wherein the apparatus is programmed for at least one of automatic activation, self-activation, automatic operation, and self-operation.

98. The apparatus of claim 87 , wherein the communication device which receives the second signal is at least one of a beeper, a pager, a telephone, a two-way pager, a reply pager, a home computer, a personal computer, a personal communication device, a personal communication services device, a television, an interactive television, a digital television, a personal digital assistant, a display telephone, a video telephone, a watch, a cellular telephone, a wireless telephone, a mobile telephone, a display cellular telephone, and a facsimile machine.

99. The apparatus of claim 87 , wherein the apparatus is programmed to revert to a pre-established credit limit or spending limit.

100. The apparatus of claim 87 , wherein at least one of the communication device from which the limitation or restriction is received and the communication device which receives the second signal is utilized to program the apparatus to at least one of change a credit limit, decrease a credit limit, and increases a credit limit.

101. The apparatus of claim 87 , wherein the limitation or restriction involves at least one of types of transactions, goods or services which may be purchased, stores or service providers which may be authorized to accept a card associated with the account, limits on dollar amounts of transactions pertaining to each authorized at least one of vendor, seller, and service provider, daily spending limits, at least one of vendors, sellers, and service providers, with which a card associated with the account may be utilized, a geographical area or location within which the card associated with the account may be utilized, authorized times of account usage, and a limitation or restriction regarding at least one of an amount of a transaction, parties involved, geographical area, and times of allowed usage.

102. The apparatus of claim 87 , wherein the limitation or restriction involves at least one of a type of a transaction, a good or a service which may be purchased, a store or a service provider which may be authorized to accept a card associated with the account, a limit on dollar amount of a transaction pertaining to each authorized at least one of vendor, seller, and service provider, a daily spending limit, at least one of a vendor, a seller, and a service provider, with which a card associated with the account may be utilized, a geographical area or location within which the card associated with the account may be utilized, an authorized time of account usage, and a limitation or restriction regarding at least one of an amount of a transaction, a party involved, a geographical area, and a time of allowed usage.

103. The apparatus of claim 87 , wherein the transmitter transmits the second signal to a plurality of communication devices which receive the second signal at least one of simultaneously and sequentially.

104. The apparatus of claim 87 , wherein information contained in the second signal is contained in at least one of a communication transmission, a telephone call, a voice message, a voice mail message, a beeper message, a pager message, a facsimile message, and an answering service message.

105. The apparatus of claim 87 , wherein the transmitter transmits an electronic mail message to a network computer associated with the individual account holder, wherein the electronic mail message contains information regarding the transaction.

106. The apparatus of claim 87 , wherein the communication device from which the limitation or restriction is received is at least one of a telephone, a touch-tone telephone, a two-way pager, a reply pager, a home computer, a personal computer, a personal communication device, a personal communication services device, a television, an interactive television, a digital television, a personal digital assistant, a display telephone, a video telephone, a watch, a cellular telephone, a wireless telephone, a mobile telephone, a display cellular telephone, and a facsimile machine.

107. The apparatus of claim 87 , wherein the apparatus comprises a plurality of computers or computer systems.

108. A transaction security apparatus, comprising: a memory device for storing a limitation or restriction regarding a banking transaction, wherein the limitation or restriction prohibits a withdrawal from at least one of a checking account, a savings account, and an automated teller machine account, or prohibits use of at least one of a checking account, a savings account, and an automated teller machine account, wherein the limitation or restriction is transmitted to a receiver from a communication device associated with an individual account holder, wherein the limitation or restriction is automatically received by the receiver, and further wherein the limitation or restriction is automatically stored in the memory device; and a central processing device for processing information regarding a banking transaction, wherein the central processing device utilizes the limitation or restriction automatically stored in the memory device in processing the banking transaction, and further wherein the central processing device generates a signal containing information for allowing or disallowing the banking transaction.

109. The apparatus of claim 108 , further comprising: a transmitter for transmitting a second signal to a communication device associated with an individual account holder, wherein the communication device receives the second signal, and further wherein the second signal contains information regarding the banking transaction.

110. The apparatus of claim 109 , further comprising: a receiver for receiving a third signal from the communication device which receives the second signal, wherein the third signal contains information for allowing or disallowing the banking transaction.

111. The apparatus of claim 110 , wherein the central processing device processes the third signal and determines whether the banking transaction is allowed or disallowed.

112. The apparatus of claim 110 , wherein the central processing device processes the third signal and determines whether the banking transaction is authorized or disallowed, and further wherein the central processing device at least one of authorizes the banking transaction, disallows the banking transaction, and cancels the banking transaction.

113. The apparatus of claim 109 , wherein the transmitter transmits the second signal to a plurality of communication devices which receive the second signal at least one of simultaneously and sequentially.

114. The apparatus of claim 109 , wherein information contained in the second signal is transmitted to the communication device which receives the second signal in at least one of a communication transmission, a telephone call, a voice message, a voice mail message, a beeper message, a pager message, a facsimile message, and an answering service message.

115. The apparatus of claim 109 , wherein the communication device which receives the second signal is at least one of a beeper, a pager, a telephone, a two-way pager, a reply pager, a home computer, a personal computer, a personal communication device, a personal communication services device, a television, an interactive television, a digital television, a personal digital assistant, a display telephone, a video telephone, a watch, a cellular telephone, a wireless telephone, a mobile telephone, a display cellular telephone, and a facsimile machine.

116. The apparatus of claim 108 , wherein the second signal contains information regarding at least one of information identifying the banking transaction, a name of a bank or financial institution where the banking transaction is taking place, an account number or description, an amount of the banking transaction, a description of the person seeking to make the banking transaction, the type of banking transaction, and a location of the banking transaction.

117. The apparatus of claim 108 , wherein the banking transaction is at least one of a checking account transaction, a savings account transaction, and an automated teller machine account transaction.

118. The apparatus of claim 108 , wherein the banking transaction is at least one of a clearing transaction, a check clearing transaction, an account charging transaction, and a charge-back transaction.

119. The apparatus of claim 108 , wherein the banking transaction is an account settling transaction.

120. The apparatus of claim 108 , wherein the apparatus is at least one of a banking transaction processing computer and a financial transaction processing computer.

121. The apparatus of claim 108 , wherein the authorization request is transmitted to the apparatus from at least one of a banking transaction device, a banking transaction terminal, a teller terminal, a teller work station, a processing computer terminal, an automated teller machine terminal, a cashier work station, and an over-the-counter transaction device.

122. The apparatus of claim 108 , wherein the apparatus is utilized on or over at least one of a telecommunication system, a satellite communication system, a radio communication system, a digital communication system, a personal communications services system, the Internet, and the World Wide Web.

123. The apparatus of claim 108 , wherein the banking transaction is a check cashing transaction.

124. The apparatus of claim 108 , wherein the banking transaction is a savings account withdrawal transaction.

125. The apparatus of claim 108 , wherein the banking transaction is an automated teller machine account withdrawal transaction.

126. The apparatus of claim 108 , further comprising: a transmitter for transmitting an electronic mail message to a network computer associated with the individual account holder, wherein the electronic mail message contains information regarding the banking transaction.

127. The apparatus of claim 108 , further comprising: a transmitter for transmitting a second signal to at least one of a communication device which receives the second signal, a computer, a radio, a car radio, and a television, wherein the second signal contains information regarding the banking transaction, and further wherein the normal operation of the at least one of a communication device which receives the second signal, a computer, a radio, a car radio, and a television, is interrupted to convey the information to the individual account holder.

128. The apparatus of claim 108 , wherein the apparatus is programmed for at least one of automatic activation, self-activation, automatic operation, and self-operation.

129. The apparatus of claim 108 , wherein the apparatus is programmed to revert to a pre-established spending limit.

130. The apparatus of claim 108 , wherein the limitation or restriction involves at least one of an amount of a transaction or transactions, an individual who may make the transaction, a specified type of proof of identity, a specific bank or financial institution authorized to accept or perform a transaction for the account, a geographical area or location within which a bank or financial institution may be authorized to accept or perform a transaction with the account, at least one of a specific time of day, a specific day, a date, and a time of the month, on which a transaction may be authorized, a limit of at least one of a charge-back, a returned item amount withdrawal, and a maintenance or other fee charge withdrawal, an authorized time for account usage, and a limitation or restriction regarding at least one of an amount of transaction, a party involved, a geographical area, and a time of allowed usage.

131. The apparatus of claim 108 , wherein the limitation or restriction involves at least one of an amount of a transaction or transactions, individuals who may make transactions, specified types of proof of identity, specific banks or financial institutions, authorized to accept or perform transactions for the account, geographical areas or location within which banks or financial institutions may be authorized to accept or perform transactions with the account, at least one of specific times of day, specific days, dates, and times of the month, on which transactions may be authorized, limits of at least one of charge-backs, returned item amount withdrawals, and maintenance or other fee charge withdrawals, authorized times for account usage, and a limitation or restriction regarding at least one of an amount of transaction, parties involved, a geographical area, and times of allowed usage.

132. The apparatus of claim 108 , wherein the communication device from which the limitation or restriction is received is utilized to change a personal identification number or access code.

133. The apparatus of claim 108 , wherein the apparatus is programmed to provide for various personal identification numbers or access codes for at least one of different locations, different automated teller machines, different days, different times, and different transaction amounts.

134. The apparatus of claim 108 , wherein the communication device from which the limitation or restriction is received is utilized to program the apparatus to provide for various personal identification numbers or access codes for at least one of different locations, different automated teller machines, different days, different times, and different transaction amounts.

135. The apparatus of claim 108 , wherein the central processing device determines whether a hold for prohibiting a withdrawal is placed on the at least one of a checking account, a savings account, and an automated teller machine account, and further wherein the central processing device disallows the banking transaction.

136. The apparatus of claim 108 , wherein the communication device from which the limitation or restriction is received is at least one of a telephone, a touch-tone telephone, a two-way pager, a reply pager, a home computer, a personal computer, a personal communication device, a personal communication services device, a television, an interactive television, a digital television, a personal digital assistant, a display telephone, a video telephone, a watch, a cellular telephone, a wireless telephone, a mobile telephone, a display cellular telephone, and a facsimile machine.

137. The apparatus of claim 108 , wherein the apparatus comprises a plurality of computers or computer systems.

138. A transaction security apparatus, comprising: a memory device for storing a limitation or restriction regarding a banking transaction, wherein the banking transaction involves a withdrawal from at least one of a checking account, a savings account, and an automated teller machine account, or a cashing of a check on a checking account, wherein the limitation or restriction contains information for prohibiting the withdrawal from the at least one of a checking account, a savings account, and an automated teller machine account, or for prohibiting the cashing of a check on a checking account, and further wherein the limitation or restriction is transmitted to a receiver from a communication device associated with an individual account holder, wherein the limitation or restriction is automatically received by the receiver, and further wherein the limitation or restriction is automatically stored in the memory device; and a central processing device for processing information regarding a banking transaction, wherein the central processing device utilizes the limitation or restriction automatically stored in the memory device in processing the banking transaction, and further wherein the central processing device generates a signal containing information for allowing or disallowing the banking transaction.

139. The apparatus of claim 138 , further comprising: a transmitter for transmitting a second signal to a communication device associated with an individual account holder, wherein the communication device receives the second signal, and further wherein the second signal contains information regarding the banking transaction.

140. The apparatus of claim 139 , further comprising: a receiver for receiving a third signal from the communication device which receives the second signal, wherein the third signal contains information for allowing or disallowing the banking transaction.

141. The apparatus of claim 140 , wherein the central processing device processes the third signal and determines whether the banking transaction is allowed or disallowed.

142. The apparatus of claim 140 , wherein the central processing device processes the third signal and determines whether the banking transaction is allowed or disallowed, and further wherein the central processing device at least one of authorizes the banking transaction, disallows the banking transaction, and cancels the banking transaction.

143. The apparatus of claim 140 , wherein the communication device which receives the second signal is at least one of a beeper, a pager, a telephone, a two-way pager, a reply pager, a home computer, a personal computer, a personal communication device, a personal communication services device, a television, an interactive television, a digital television, a personal digital assistant, a display telephone, a video telephone, a watch, a cellular telephone, a wireless telephone, a mobile telephone, a display cellular telephone, and a facsimile machine.

144. The apparatus of claim 139 , wherein the transmitter transmits the second signal to a plurality of communication devices which receive the second signal at least one of simultaneously and sequentially.

145. The apparatus of claim 139 , wherein information contained in the second signal is transmitted to the communication device which receives the second signal in at least one of a communication transmission, a telephone call, a voice message, a voice mail message, a beeper message, a pager message, a facsimile message, and an answering service message.

146. The apparatus of claim 138 , wherein the second signal contains information regarding at least one of information identifying the transaction, a name of a bank or financial institution where the transaction is taking place, an account number or description, an amount of the transaction, a description of the person seeking to make the transaction, the type of transaction, and a location of the transaction.

147. The apparatus of claim 138 , wherein the banking transaction is at least one of a checking account transaction, a savings account transaction, and an automated teller machine account transaction.

148. The apparatus of claim 138 , wherein the banking transaction is at least one of a clearing transaction, a check clearing transaction, an account charging transaction, a charge-back transaction, and an account settling transaction.

149. The apparatus of claim 138 , wherein the apparatus is at least one of a banking transaction processing computer and a financial transaction processing computer.

150. The apparatus of claim 138 , wherein the authorization request is transmitted to the apparatus from at least one of a banking transaction device, a banking transaction terminal, a teller terminal, a teller work station, a processing computer terminal, an automated teller machine terminal, a cashier work station, an over-the-counter transaction device.

151. The apparatus of claim 138 , wherein the apparatus is utilized on or over at least one of a telecommunication system, a satellite communication system, a radio communication system, a digital communication system, a personal communications services system, the Internet, and the World Wide Web.

152. The apparatus of claim 138 , wherein the banking transaction is a check cashing transaction.

153. The apparatus of claim 138 , wherein the banking transaction is a savings account withdrawal transaction.

154. The apparatus of claim 138 , further comprising: a transmitter for transmitting an electronic mail message to a network computer associated with the individual account holder, wherein the electronic mail message contains information regarding the transaction.

155. The apparatus of claim 138 , wherein the banking transaction is an automated teller machine account withdrawal transaction.

156. The apparatus of claim 138 , further comprising: a transmitter for transmitting a second signal to at least one of a communication device which receives the second signal, a computer, a radio, a car radio, and a television, wherein the second signal contains information regarding the banking transaction, and further wherein the normal operation of the at least one of a communication device which receives the second signal, a computer, a radio, a car radio, and a television, is interrupted to convey the information to the individual account holder.

157. The apparatus of claim 138 , wherein the apparatus is programmed for at least one of automatic activation, self-activation, automatic operation, and self-operation.

158. The apparatus of claim 138 , wherein the apparatus is programmed to revert to a pre-established spending limit.

159. The apparatus of claim 138 , wherein the limitation or restriction involves at least one of an amount of a transaction or transactions, an individual who may make the transaction, a specified type of proof of identity, a specific bank or financial institution authorized to accept or perform a transaction for the account, a geographical area or location within which a bank or financial institution may be authorized to accept or perform a transaction with the account, at least one of a specific time of day, a specific day, a date, and a time of the month, on which a transaction may be authorized, a limit of at least one of a charge-back, a returned item amount withdrawal, and a maintenance or other fee charge withdrawal, an authorized time for account usage, and a limitation or restriction regarding at least one of an amount of transaction, a party involved, a geographical area, and a time of allowed usage.

160. The apparatus of claim 138 , wherein the limitation or restriction involves at least one of an amount of a transaction or transactions, individuals who may make transactions, specified types of proof of identity, specific banks or financial institutions, authorized to accept or perform transactions for the account, geographical area or location within which banks or financial institutions may be authorized to accept or perform transactions with the account, at least one of specific times of day, specific days, dates, and times of the month, on which transactions may be authorized, limits of at least one of charge-backs, returned item amount withdrawals, and maintenance or other fee charge withdrawals, authorized times for account usage, and a limitation or restriction regarding at least one of an amount of transaction, parties involved, a geographical area, and times of allowed usage.

161. The apparatus of claim 138 , wherein the communication device from which the limitation or restriction is received is utilized to change a personal identification number or access code.

162. The apparatus of claim 138 , wherein the apparatus can be programmed to provide for various personal identification numbers or access codes for at least one of different locations, different automated teller machines, different days, different times, and different transaction amounts.

163. The apparatus of claim 138 , wherein the communication device from which the limitation or restriction is received is utilized to program the apparatus to provide for various personal identification numbers or access codes for at least one of different locations, different automated teller machines, different days, different times, and different transaction amounts.

164. The apparatus of claim 138 , wherein the central processing device determines whether a hold for prohibiting a withdrawal is placed on the at least one of a checking account, a savings account, and an automated teller machine account, and further wherein the central processing device disallows the banking transaction.

165. The apparatus of claim 138 , wherein the communication device from which the limitation or restriction is received is at least one of a telephone, a touch-tone telephone, a two-way pager, a reply pager, a home computer, a personal computer, a personal communication device, a personal communication services device, a television, an interactive television, a digital television, a personal digital assistant, a display telephone, a video telephone, a watch, a cellular telephone, a wireless telephone, a mobile telephone, a display cellular telephone, and a facsimile machine.

166. The apparatus of claim 138 , wherein the apparatus comprises a plurality of computers or computer systems.

167. A transaction security apparatus, comprising: a memory device for storing a limitation regarding a use of a communication device on a wireless communication device account or a cellular communication device account, wherein the limitation contains information regarding at least one of phone numbers which may be called, numbers from which an incoming call may be accepted or received, at least one of times of day, specific days, dates, and times of month or year, during which a communication device may be utilized, authorized times of usage of a communication device on the account, amount of transaction, parties involved, and times of allowed usage, wherein the limitation is transmitted to a receiver from a communication device associated with an individual account holder, wherein the limitation is automatically received by the receiver, and further wherein the limitation is automatically stored in the memory device; a central processing device for processing information regarding a use of a communication device on the wireless communication device account or the cellular communication device account or an attempt to use a communication device on the wireless communication device account or the cellular communication device account, wherein the central processing device utilizes the limitation automatically stored in the memory device in processing the information regarding a use of a communication device on the wireless communication device account or the cellular communication device account or an attempt to use a communication device on the wireless communication device account or the cellular communication device account, and further wherein the central processing device generates a signal containing information for allowing or disallowing the use of the communication device.

168. The apparatus of claim 167 , further comprising: a transmitter for transmitting a second signal to a second communication device associated with an individual account holder, wherein the second signal contains information regarding the use of the communication device or the attempt to use the communication device.

169. The apparatus of claim 168 , further comprising: a receiver for receiving a third signal from the second communication device, wherein the third signal contains information for allowing or disallowing the use of the communication device.

170. The apparatus of claim 169 , wherein the central processing device processes the third signal and determines whether the use of the communication device is allowed or disallowed.

171. The apparatus of claim 169 , wherein the central processing device processes the third signal and determines whether the use of the communication device is allowed or disallowed, and further wherein the central processing device at least one of allows the use of the communication device, disallows the use of the communication device, and terminates the use of the communication device.

172. The apparatus of claim 168 , wherein the transmitter transmits the second signal to a plurality of second communication devices at least one of simultaneously and sequentially.

173. The apparatus of claim 168 , wherein information contained in the second signal is transmitted to the second communication device is at least one of a communication transmission, a telephone call, a voice message, a voice mail message, a beeper message, a pager message, a facsimile message, and an answering service message.

174. The apparatus of claim 168 , wherein the second communication device is at least one of a beeper, a pager, a telephone, a two-way pager, a reply pager, a home computer, a personal computer, a personal communication device, a personal communication services device, a television, an interactive television, a digital television, a personal digital assistant, a display telephone, a video telephone, a watch, a cellular telephone, a wireless telephone, a mobile telephone, a display cellular telephone, and a facsimile machine.

175. The apparatus of claim 168 , wherein the transmitter transmits the second signal to at least one of a second communication device, a computer, a radio, a car radio, and a television, and further wherein the normal operation of the at least one of a second communication device, a computer, a radio, a car radio, and a television, is interrupted to convey the information to the individual account holder.

176. The apparatus of claim 168 , wherein the second signal contains information regarding a number called, a time of a call, and a duration of a call.

177. The apparatus of claim 167 , wherein the apparatus is a central processing computer for at least one of processing information and maintaining records for wireless communication device accounts or cellular communication device accounts, wherein the information includes at least one of account usage information and account billing information.

178. The apparatus of claim 167 , wherein the apparatus is utilized on or over at least one of a telecommunication system, a satellite communication system, a radio communication system, a digital communication system, a personal communications services system, the Internet, and the World Wide Web.

179. The apparatus of claim 167 , further comprising: a transmitter for transmitting an electronic mail message to a network computer associated with the individual account holder, wherein the electronic mail message contains information regarding the use of the communication device or the attempt to use the communication device.

180. The apparatus of claim 167 , wherein the apparatus is programmed for at least one of automatic activation, self-activation, automatic operation, and self-operation.

181. The apparatus of claim 167 , wherein the central processing device utilizes a second limitation automatically received from the communication device from which the limitation is received and automatically stored in the memory device in processing information regarding the use of the communication device on the wireless communication device account or the cellular communication device account or the attempt to use the communication device on the wireless communication device account or the cellular communication device account, wherein the second limitation contains information regarding at least one of a geographical area which may be called or accessed, geographical areas which may be called or accessed, a location which may be called or accessed, locations which may be called or accessed, a geographical area or areas from which calls may be received, a location or locations from which calls may be received, a specific phone number or specific phone numbers which may be called, a specific time duration or specific time durations for a phone call, and an authorized time or authorized times for communication device usage.

182. The apparatus of claim 167 , wherein the communication device from which the limitation is received is at least one of a telephone, a touch-tone telephone, a two-way pager, a reply pager, a home computer, a personal computer, a personal communication device, a personal communication services device, a television, an interactive television, a digital television, a personal digital assistant, a display telephone, a video telephone, a watch, a cellular telephone, a wireless telephone, a mobile telephone, a display cellular telephone, and a facsimile machine.

183. The apparatus of claim 167 , wherein the apparatus comprises a plurality of computers or computer systems.

184. A transaction security method, comprising: receiving a limitation or restriction on a use of an account, wherein the account is capable of being utilized in transactions involving the purchase of goods and services, wherein the limitation or restriction is transmitted to a receiver from a communication device associated with an individual account holder, and wherein the limitation or restriction is automatically received by the receiver; storing the limitation or restriction in a memory device, wherein the limitation or restriction is automatically stored in the memory device; processing an authorization request for a transaction on the account, wherein the authorization request is processed by a central processing device, and further wherein the limitation or restriction automatically stored in the memory device is utilized in processing the authorization request; and generating a signal containing information for authorizing or disallowing the transaction, wherein the signal is generated by the central processing device.

185. A transaction security method, comprising: receiving a limitation or restriction on a use of an account, wherein the limitation or restriction is transmitted to a receiver from a communication device associated with an individual account holder, and wherein the limitation or restriction is automatically received by the receiver; storing the limitation or restriction in a memory device, wherein the limitation or restriction is automatically stored in the memory device; processing an authorization request for a transaction on the account, wherein the authorization request is received from a transaction authorization device, wherein the transaction authorization device is utilized in conjunction with at least one of a credit card transaction, a charge card transaction, a debit card transaction, a currency card, and a smart card transaction, and further wherein the transaction device is located at a point-of-sale in a transaction involving an in-person transaction or at a location of at least one of a goods provider and a service provider in a transaction involving at least one of a telephone order, a mail order, an Internet transaction, and an on-line transaction, and wherein the authorization request is processed by a central processing device, and further wherein the limitation or restriction automatically stored in the memory device is utilized in processing the authorization request; and generating a signal containing information for authorizing or disallowing the transaction, wherein the signal is generated by the central processing device.

186. A transaction security method, comprising: receiving a limitation or restriction on a use of an account, wherein the limitation or restriction is transmitted to a receiver from a communication device associated with an individual account holder, and wherein the limitation or restriction includes information regarding a name of a party authorized to use the account and information regarding a spending limit on the account, wherein the limitation or restriction is automatically received by the receiver; storing the limitation or restriction in a memory device, wherein the limitation or restriction is automatically stored in the memory device; processing an authorization request for a transaction on the account, wherein the authorization request is processed by a central processing device, and further wherein the limitation or restriction automatically stored in the memory device is utilized in processing the authorization request; and generating a signal containing information for authorizing or disallowing the transaction, wherein the signal is generated by the central processing device.

187. A transaction security method, comprising: receiving a limitation or restriction on a use of an account, wherein the limitation or restriction is transmitted to a receiver from a communication device associated with an individual account holder, wherein the limitation or restriction includes information regarding a name of a party authorized to use the account and information regarding a spending limit on the account, and wherein the limitation or restriction is automatically received by the receiver; storing the limitation or restriction in a memory device, wherein the limitation or restriction is automatically stored in the memory device; processing an authorization request for a transaction on the account, wherein the authorization request is processed by a central processing device, and further wherein the limitation or restriction automatically stored in the memory device is utilized in processing the authorization request; generating a first signal containing information for authorizing or disallowing the transaction, wherein the first signal is generated by the central processing device; generating a second signal containing information regarding the transaction, wherein the second signal is generated by the central processing device; and transmitting the signal to a communication device associated with the individual account holder.

188. A transaction security method, comprising: receiving a limitation or restriction on a use of an account, wherein the account is at least one of a credit card account, a charge card account, a debit card account, a currency card account, a smart card account, a checking account, a savings account, and an automated teller machine account, wherein the limitation or restriction is transmitted to a receiver from a communication device associated with an individual account holder, and wherein the limitation or restriction is automatically received by the receiver; storing the limitation or restriction in a memory device, wherein the limitation or restriction is automatically stored in the memory device; processing an authorization request for a transaction on the account, wherein the authorization request is processed by a central processing device, wherein the central processing device utilizes the limitation or restriction automatically stored in the memory device in processing the authorization request; generating a first signal containing information for authorizing or disallowing the transaction, wherein the first signal is generated by the central processing device; generating a second signal containing information regarding the transaction, wherein the second signal is generated by the central processing device; and transmitting the second signal to a communication device associated with the individual account holder, wherein the second signal is transmitted to the communication device in real-time.

189. A transaction security method, comprising: receiving a limitation or restriction regarding a banking transaction, wherein the limitation or restriction prohibits a withdrawal from at least one of a checking account, a savings account, and an automated teller machine account, or prohibits use of at least one of a checking account, a savings account, and an automated teller machine account, wherein the limitation or restriction is transmitted to a receiver from a communication device associated with an individual account holder, and wherein the limitation or restriction is automatically received by the receiver; storing the limitation or restriction in a memory device, wherein the limitation or restriction is automatically stored in the memory device; processing information regarding a banking transaction, wherein the information is processed by a central processing device, and further wherein the limitation or restriction automatically stored in the memory device is utilized in processing the banking transaction; and generating a signal containing information for allowing or disallowing the banking transaction, wherein the signal is generated by the central processing device.

190. A transaction security method, comprising: receiving a limitation or restriction regarding a banking transaction, wherein the banking transaction involves a withdrawal from at least one of a checking account, a savings account, and an automated teller machine account, or a cashing of a check on a checking account, wherein the limitation or restriction contains information for prohibiting the withdrawal from the at least one of a checking account, a savings account, and an automated teller machine account, or for prohibiting the cashing of a check on a checking account, and further wherein the limitation or restriction is transmitted to a receiver from a communication device associated with an individual account holder, wherein the limitation or restriction is automatically received by the receiver; storing the limitation or restriction in a memory device, wherein the limitation or restriction is automatically stored in the memory device; processing information regarding a banking transaction, wherein the information is processed by a central processing device, and further wherein the limitation or restriction automatically stored in the memory device is utilized in processing the banking transaction; and generating a signal containing information for allowing or disallowing the banking transaction, wherein the signal is generated by the central processing device.

191. A transaction security method, comprising: receiving a limitation regarding a use of a communication device on a wireless communication device account or a cellular communication device account, wherein the limitation contains information regarding at least one of phone numbers which may be called, numbers from which an incoming call may be accepted or received, at least one of times of day, specific days, dates, and times of month or year, during which a communication device may be utilized, authorized times of usage of a communication device on the account, amount of transaction, parties involved, and times of allowed usage, wherein the limitation is transmitted to a receiver from a communication device associated with an individual account holder, and further wherein the limitation is automatically received by the receiver; storing the limitation in a memory device, wherein the limitation is automatically stored in the memory device; processing information regarding a use of a communication device on the wireless communication device account or the cellular communication device account or an attempt to use a communication device on the wireless communication device account or the cellular communication device account, and further wherein the information is processed by a central processing device, wherein the limitation automatically stored in the memory device is utilized in processing the information; and generating a signal containing information for allowing or disallowing the use of the communication device, wherein the signal is generated by the central processing device.

192. A transaction security apparatus, comprising: a processing device for processing information regarding a banking transaction, wherein the banking transaction involves at least one of a checking account, a savings account, and an automated teller machine account, and wherein the information is input via an input device or automatically received by a receiver, wherein the processing device generates a first signal containing information for allowing or disallowing the banking transaction, and further wherein the processing device generated a second signal containing information regarding the banking transaction; and a transmitter for transmitting the second signal to a communication device associated with an individual account holder, wherein the second signal is transmitted to the communication device in real-time, and further wherein the communication device provides information to the individual account holder regarding the banking transaction, and wherein the communication device is at least one of a beeper, a pager, a telephone, a two-way pager, a reply pager, a home computer, a personal computer, a personal communication device, a personal communication services device, a television, an interactive television, a digital television, a personal digital assistant, a display telephone, a video telephone, a watch, a cellular telephone, a wireless telephone, a mobile telephone, a display cellular telephone, and a facsimile machine.

193. A transaction security method, comprising: at least one of inputting information regarding a banking transaction via an input device and receiving information regarding a banking transaction with a receiver, wherein the banking transaction involves at least one of a checking account, a savings account, and an automated teller machine account; processing the information regarding the banking transaction, wherein the information is processed with a processing device; generating a first signal containing information for allowing or disallowing the banking transaction, wherein the first signal is generated by the processing device; generating a second signal containing information regarding the banking transaction, wherein the second signal is generated by the processing device; and transmitting the second signal to a communication device associated with an individual account holder, wherein the second signal is transmitted to the communication device in real-time, and further wherein the communication device provides information to the individual account holder regarding the banking transaction, and wherein the communication device is at least one of a beeper, a pager, a telephone, a two-way pager, a reply pager, a home computer, a personal computer, a personal communication device, a personal communication services device, a television, an interactive television, a digital television, a personal digital assistant, a display telephone, a video telephone, a watch, a cellular telephone, a wireless telephone, a mobile telephone, a display cellular telephone, and a facsimile machine.

194. A transaction security apparatus, comprising: a memory device for storing a limitation regarding a use of a communication device on a wireless communication device account or a cellular communication device account, wherein the limitation contains information regarding at least one of phone numbers which may be called, numbers from which an incoming call may be accepted or received, at least one of times of day, specific days, dates, and times of month or year, during which a communication device may be utilized, authorized times of usage of a communication device on the account, amount of transaction, parties involved, and times of allowed usage, wherein the limitation is automatically received by a receiver, and further wherein the limitation is transmitted to the receiver from a communication device associated with an individual account holder, and further wherein the limitation is automatically stored in the memory device; a central processing device for processing information regarding a use of a communication device on a wireless communication device account or a cellular communication device account or an attempt to use a communication device on a wireless communication device account or a cellular communication device account, wherein the central processing device determines whether the limitation automatically stored in the memory device is met, and further wherein the central processing device generates a first signal containing information for allowing or disallowing the use of the communication device, and further wherein the central processing device generates a second signal containing information regarding the use of the communication device or the attempt to use the communication device; and a transmitter for transmitting the second signal to a second communication device, wherein the second communication device is associated with an individual account holder, wherein the second signal is transmitted to the second communication device in real-time, and further wherein the second communication device provides information to the individual account holder regarding the use of the communication device or the attempt to use the communication device, and further wherein the second communication device is at least one of a beeper, a pager, a telephone, a two-way pager, a reply pager, a home computer, a personal computer, a personal communication device, a personal communication services device, a television, an interactive television, a digital television, a personal digital assistant, a display telephone, a video telephone, a watch, a cellular telephone, a wireless telephone, a mobile telephone, a display cellular telephone, and a facsimile machine.

195. A transaction security method, comprising: storing a limitation regarding a use of a communication device on a wireless communication device account or a cellular communication device account in a memory device, wherein the limitation contains information regarding at least one of phone numbers which may be called, numbers from which an incoming call may be accepted or received, at least one of times of day, specific days, dates, and times of month or year, during which a communication device may be utilized, authorized times of usage of a communication device on the account, amount of transaction, parties involved, and times of allowed usage, wherein the limitation is automatically received by a receiver, wherein the limitation is transmitted to the receiver from a communication device associated with an individual account holder, and further wherein the limitation is automatically stored in the memory device; processing information regarding a use of a communication device on a wireless communication device account or a cellular communication device account or an attempt to use a communication device on a wireless communication device account or a cellular communication device account, wherein the information is processed by a central processing device; determining whether the limitation automatically stored in the memory device is met, wherein the central processing device determines whether the limitation is met; generating a first signal containing information for allowing or disallowing the use of the communication device, wherein the first signal is generated by the central processing device; generating a second signal containing information regarding the use of the communication device or the attempt to use the communication device, wherein the second signal is generated by the central processing device; and transmitting the second signal to a second communication device, wherein the second communication device is associated with an individual account holder, wherein the second signal is transmitted to the second communication device in real-time, and wherein the second communication device in real-time, and wherein the second communication device provides information to the individual account holder regarding the use of the communication device or the attempt to use the communication device, and further wherein the second communication device is at least one of a beeper, a pager, a telephone, a two-way pager, a reply pager, a home computer, a personal computer, a personal communication device, a personal communication services device, a television, an interactive television, a digital television, a personal digital assistant, a display telephone, a video telephone, a watch, a cellular telephone, a wireless telephone, a mobile telephone, a display cellular telephone, and a facsimile machine.

196. A transaction security apparatus, comprising: at least one of an input device and a data entry device for at least one of inputting and entering transaction information regarding a transaction into the apparatus; a processing device for processing the transaction information and for generating a signal corresponding to the transaction; and a transmitter for transmitting the signal from the apparatus to a communication device independently of any processing of the transaction by a central transaction processing computer, wherein the communication device is associated with an individual account holder, and wherein the communication device provides information to the individual account holder regarding the transaction, and further wherein the communication device is at least one of a beeper, a pager, a telephone, a two-way pager, a reply pager, a home computer, a personal computer, a personal communication device, a personal communication services device, a television, an interactive television, a digital television, a personal digital assistant, a display telephone, a video telephone, a watch, a cellular telephone, a wireless telephone, a mobile telephone, a display cellular telephone, and a facsimile machine.

197. The apparatus of claim 196 , further comprising: a receiver for receiving a second signal from the communication device, wherein the second signal contains information for at least one of authorizing, allowing, and disallowing, the transaction.

198. The apparatus of claim 197 , wherein the processing device processes the second signal and determines whether the transaction is at least one of authorized, allowed, and disallowed.

199. The apparatus of claim 196 , wherein the transmitter transmits the signal to a central processing computer.

200. The apparatus of claim 196 , further comprising: a receiver for receiving a second signal, wherein the second signal is transmitted from at least one of the communication device and a central processing computer, wherein the second signal contains information for at least one of authorizing, allowing, and disallowing, the transaction.

201. The apparatus of claim 196 , wherein the apparatus is at least one of a point-of-sale authorization device, a point-of-sale authorization terminal, and a transaction authorization device.

202. The apparatus of claim 196 , wherein the apparatus is at least one of a credit card authorization device, a charge card authorization device, and a debit card authorization device.

203. The apparatus of claim 196 , wherein the apparatus is at least one of a currency card authorization device and a smart card authorization device.

204. The apparatus of claim 196 , wherein the transaction is at least one of a point-of-sale transaction, a telephone order, a mail order, an Internet transaction, and an on-line transaction.

205. The apparatus of claim 196 , wherein the signal contains information regarding a card utilized in the transaction and an amount of the transaction.

206. The apparatus of claim 196 , wherein the apparatus is a component of a cash register.

207. The apparatus of claim 196 , further comprising: a display device for displaying information regarding the transaction.

208. The apparatus of claim 196 , further comprising: a printer for outputting information regarding the transaction.

209. The apparatus of claim 196 , wherein the transaction involves a use of at least one of a credit card, a charge card, a debit card, a currency card, and a smart card.

210. The apparatus of claim 196 , wherein the transaction is at least one of a checking account transaction, a savings account transaction, and an automated teller machine account transaction.

211. The apparatus of claim 196 , wherein the transaction is at least one of a clearing transaction, a check clearing transaction, an account charging transaction, and a charge-back transaction.

212. The apparatus of claim 196 , wherein the apparatus is at least one of a banking transaction device, a banking transaction terminal, a teller terminal, a teller work station, a processing computer terminal, an automated teller machine terminal, a cashier work station, and an over-the-counter transaction device.

213. The apparatus of claim 196 , further comprising: at least one of a reading device and a scanning device for at least one of reading and scanning information regarding the transaction.

214. The apparatus of claim 196 , wherein the apparatus is at least one of a wireless communication device and a cellular communication device.

215. The apparatus of claim 196 , wherein the apparatus is utilized on or over at least one of a telecommunication system, a satellite communication system, a radio communication system, a digital communication system, a personal communications services system, the Internet, and the World Wide Web.

216. The apparatus of claim 196 , wherein the transmitter transmits the signal to a plurality of communication devices associated with the individual account holder at least one of simultaneously and sequentially.

217. The apparatus of claim 196 , wherein information contained in the signal is transmitted to the communication device in at least one of a communication transmission, a telephone call, a voice message, a voice mail message, a beeper message, a pager message, a facsimile message, and an answering service message.

218. The apparatus of claim 196 , wherein the transaction is a check cashing transaction.

219. The apparatus of claim 196 , wherein the transaction is a savings account withdrawal transaction.

220. The apparatus of claim 196 , wherein the transaction is an automated teller machine account withdrawal transaction.

221. The apparatus of claim 196 , wherein the transmitter transmits an electronic mail message to a network computer associated with the individual account holder, wherein the electronic mail message contains information regarding the transaction.

222. The apparatus of claim 196 , further comprising; a receiver for receiving a second signal, wherein the second signal is transmitted from at least one of the communication device and a central processing computer, wherein the second signal contains information for at least one of authorizing, allowing, and disallowing, the transaction, wherein the processing device processes the second signal, and further wherein the processing device determines whether the transaction is at least one of authorized, allowed, and disallowed.

223. The apparatus of claim 196 , wherein the processing device processes the second signal and determines whether the transaction is at least one of authorized, allowed, and disallowed, and further wherein the processing device at least one of authorizes the transaction, disallows the transaction, and cancels the transaction.

224. The apparatus of claim 196 , wherein the transmitter transmits the signal to at least one of the communication device, a computer, a radio, a car radio, and a television, and further wherein the normal operation of the at least one of the communication device, a computer, a radio, a car radio, and a television, is interrupted to convey the information to the individual account holder.

225. The apparatus of claim 196 , wherein the first signal contains information regarding at least one of information identifying the transaction, a name of a store or service provider, an amount of the transaction, a time of the transaction, a location of the transaction, and a good or service involved in the transaction.

226. The apparatus of claim 196 , wherein the signal contains information regarding at least one of information identifying the transaction, a name of a bank or financial institution where the transaction is taking place, an amount of the transaction, an account number or description, a description of a person seeking to make the transaction, a type of transaction, a time of the transaction, and a location of the transaction.

227. The apparatus of claim 196 , wherein the processing device processes transaction information for at least one of any number of accounts and any number of types of accounts.

228. The apparatus of claim 196 , wherein the signal contains information regarding at least one of a number called, a time of a call, and a duration of a call.

229. The apparatus of claim 196 , wherein the apparatus suspends use of a card associated with the account.

230. The apparatus of claim 196 , wherein the apparatus notifies the individual account holder of the transaction.

231. The apparatus of claim 196 , wherein the apparatus is programmed for at least one of automatic activation, self-activation, automatic operation, and self-operation.

232. A transaction security method, comprising: at least one of inputting and entering transaction information regarding a transaction on an account into a transaction device; processing the transaction information; generating a signal corresponding to the transaction; and transmitting the signal from the transaction device to a communication device independently of any processing of the transaction by a central transaction processing computer, wherein the communication device is associated with an individual account holder, and wherein the communication device provides information to the individual account holder regarding the transaction, and further wherein the communication device is at least one of a beeper, a pager, a telephone, a two-way pager, a reply pager, a home computer, a personal computer, a personal communication device, a personal communication services device, a television, an interactive television, a digital television, a personal digital assistant, a display telephone, a video telephone, a watch, a cellular telephone, a wireless telephone, a mobile telephone, a display cellular telephone, and a facsimile machine.

233. The method of claim 232 , further comprising: receiving a second signal, wherein the second signal is transmitted from at least one of the communication device and a central processing computer, wherein the second signal contains information for at least one of authorizing, allowing, and disallowing, the transaction, processing the second signal; and determining whether the transaction is at least one of authorized, allowed, and disallowed.

234. A transaction security apparatus, comprising: a receiver for receiving a first signal, wherein the first signal is transmitted from a transaction device to the receiver independently of any processing of the transaction by a central transaction processing computer, wherein the apparatus is associated with an individual account holder, and further wherein the first signal contains information regarding a transaction occurring on an account, wherein the apparatus is at least one of a beeper, a pager, a telephone, a two-way pager, a reply pager, a home computer, a personal computer, a personal communication device, a personal communication services device, a television, an interactive television, a digital television, a personal digital assistant, a display telephone, a video telephone, a watch, a cellular telephone, a wireless telephone, a mobile telephone, a display cellular telephone, and a facsimile machine; and a processing device for processing the first signal and for generating a second signal, wherein the second signal provides information regarding the transaction to the individual account holder.

235. The apparatus of claim 234 , further comprising: a transmitter for transmitting a third signal to the transaction device, wherein the third signal contains information for at least one of authorizing, allowing, and disallowing, the transaction.

236. The apparatus of claim 234 , further comprising: a transmitter for transmitting a third signal to at least one of the transaction device and a central processing computer, wherein the third signal contains information for at least one of authorizing, allowing, and disallowing, the transaction.

237. The apparatus of claim 234 , wherein the receiver receives a transaction notification signal from a central processing computer, wherein the transaction notification signal provides information regarding the transaction.

238. The apparatus of claim 234 , wherein the apparatus is utilized on or over at least one of a telecommunication system, a satellite communication system, a radio communication system, a digital communication system, a personal communications services system, the Internet, and the World Wide Web.

239. The apparatus of claim 234 , wherein information contained in the first signal is transmitted to the apparatus in at least one of a communication transmission, a telephone call, a voice message, a voice mail message, a beeper message, a pager message, a facsimile message, and an answering service message.

240. The apparatus of claim 234 , further comprising: an input device for inputting information into the apparatus.

241. The apparatus of claim 234 , further comprising: a display device for displaying information contained in the second signal.

242. The apparatus of claim 234 , wherein the apparatus generates a signal containing information for suspending use of a card associated with the account.

243. The apparatus of claim 234 , wherein the apparatus is programmed to automatically transmit a third signal in response to the first signal, wherein the third signal contains information for at least one of authorizing, allowing, and disallowing, the transaction.

244. The apparatus of claim 234 , wherein the apparatus is programmed to respond to the first signal with at least one of a programmed response and a pre-set response.

245. The apparatus of claim 234 , wherein the apparatus is programmed to at least one of allow and disallow a use of a communication device on a wireless communication device account or a cellular communication device account according to at least one of time of day, calling area, number called, call duration, and transaction duration.

246. The apparatus of claim 234 , wherein the apparatus is programmed to at least one of analyze information contained in the first signal and limit the amounts of transactions.

247. The apparatus of claim 234 , further comprising: a memory device for storing information regarding any number of transactions for any number of accounts or for any types of accounts.

248. The apparatus of claim 247 , wherein the apparatus provides the information stored in the memory device to the individual account holder.

249. The apparatus of claim 234 , wherein at least one of the first signal and the second signal contain information regarding at least one of information identifying the transaction, a name of a store or service provider, an amount of the transaction, a time of the transaction, a location of the transaction, and information regarding a good or service involved in the transaction.

250. The apparatus of claim 234 , further comprising: a display device for displaying information contained in the second signal, wherein the second signal contains information regarding at least one of a name of a store and a service provider, an amount of the transaction, a time of the transaction, a location of the transaction, and information regarding a good or service involved in the transaction.

251. The apparatus of claim 234 , wherein the transaction device is at least one of a credit card authorization device, a charge card authorization device, and a debit card authorization device.

252. The apparatus of claim 234 , wherein the transaction device is at least one of a currency card authorization device and a smart card authorization device.

253. The apparatus of claim 234 , wherein the transaction device is at least one of a banking transaction device, a banking transaction terminal, a teller terminal, a teller work station, a processing computer terminal, an automated teller machine terminal, a cashier work station, and an over-the-counter transaction device.

254. The apparatus of claim 234 , wherein the transaction device is at least one of a wireless communication device and a cellular communication device.

255. The apparatus of claim 234 , wherein at least one of the first signal and the second signal contain information regarding at least one of information identifying the transaction, a name of a bank or financial institution where the transaction is taking place, an amount of the transaction, an account number or description, a description of a person seeking to make the transaction, a type of transaction, a time of the transaction, and a location of the transaction.

256. The apparatus of claim 234 , further comprising: a display device for displaying information contained in the second signal, wherein the second signal contains information regarding at least one of a name of a bank or financial institution, an amount of the transaction, a time of the transaction, and a location of the transaction.

257. The apparatus of claim 234 , wherein at least one of the first signal and the second signal contain information regarding at least one of a number called, a time of a call, and a duration of a call.

258. The apparatus of claim 234 , wherein the apparatus is programmed for automatically transmitting a third signal in response to the first signal, wherein the third signal contains information for allowing or disallowing a use of a wireless communication device or a cellular communication device.

259. The apparatus of claim 234 , wherein the apparatus is programmed to allow or disallow at least one of a cellular telephone call, a wireless telephone call, and a transaction, according to at least one of a time of day, a calling area, a number called, a call duration, and a transaction duration.

260. The apparatus of claim 234 , wherein the apparatus is programmed to limit the number of telephone calls made from a wireless communication is device or a cellular communication device.

261. The apparatus of claim 234 , further comprising: a memory device for storing information regarding any number of telephone calls or transactions made on a wireless communication account or a cellular communication account.

262. The apparatus of claim 234 , wherein the processing device processes information for at least one of any number of accounts and any number of types of accounts.

263. The apparatus of claim 234 , wherein the apparatus notifies the individual account holder of at least one of the transaction, a use of the account, a use of a card associated with the account, and a use of a wireless communication device or a cellular communication device in a call or transaction.

264. The apparatus of claim 234 , wherein the apparatus is programmed for at least one of automatic activation, self-activation, automatic operation, and self-operation.

265. A transaction security method, comprising: receiving a first signal from a transaction device, wherein the first signal, is received at a communication device, wherein the first signal is transmitted from the transaction device to the communication device independently of any processing of the transaction by a central transaction processing computer, wherein the communication device is associated with an individual account holder, and wherein the first signal contains information regarding a transaction occurring on an account, and further wherein the communication device is at least one of a beeper, a pager, a telephone, a two-way pager, a reply pager, a home computer, a personal computer, a personal communication device, a personal communication services device, a television, an interactive television, a digital television, a personal digital assistant, a display telephone, a video telephone, a watch, a cellular telephone, a wireless telephone, a mobile telephone, a display cellular telephone, and a facsimile machine; processing the first signal; generating a second signal; and providing or displaying at least a portion of the information contained in the second signal, wherein the at least a portion of the information contained in the second signal provides information regarding the transaction to the individual account holder.

266. A transaction security apparatus, comprising: at least one of an input device and a data entry device for at least one of inputting and entering transaction information regarding a transaction into the apparatus; a processing device for processing the transaction information and for generating a first signal corresponding to the transaction; and a transmitter for transmitting the first signal from the apparatus to a communication device independently of any processing of the transaction by a central transaction processing computer, wherein the communication device is associated with an individual account holder, and wherein the communication device provides information to the individual account holder regarding the transaction, and further wherein the communication device is at least one of a beeper, a pager, a telephone, a two-way pager, a reply pager, a home computer, a personal computer, a personal communication device, a personal communication services device, a television, an interactive television, a digital television, a personal digital assistant, a display telephone, a video telephone, a watch, a cellular telephone, a wireless telephone, a mobile telephone, a display cellular telephone, and a facsimile machine; and a receiver for receiving a second signal from the communication device, wherein the second signal contains information for at least one of authorizing, allowing, and disallowing, the transaction.

267. A transaction security apparatus, comprising: a processing device for processing information regarding a banking transaction, wherein the banking transaction involves at least one of a checking account, a savings account, and an automated teller machine account, and wherein the information is input via an input device or automatically received by a receiver, wherein the processing device is capable of allowing or disallowing the banking transaction, and further wherein the processing device generates a signal containing information regarding the banking transaction; and a transmitter for transmitting the signal to a communication device associated with an individual account holder, wherein the signal is transmitted to the communication device in real-time, and further wherein the communication device provides information to the individual account holder regarding the banking transaction, and wherein the communication device is at least one of a beeper, a pager, a telephone, a two-way pager, a reply pager, a home computer, a personal computer, a personal communication device, a personal communication services device, a television, an interactive television, a digital television, a personal digital assistant, a display telephone, a video telephone, a watch, a cellular telephone, a wireless telephone, a mobile telephone, a display cellular telephone, and a facsimile machine.

268. The apparatus of claim 267 , further comprising: a receiver for receiving a second signal from the communication device, wherein the second signal contains information for allowing or disallowing the banking transaction.

269. The apparatus of claim 268 , wherein the processing device processes the second signal and determines whether the banking transaction is allowed or disallowed.

270. The apparatus of claim 268 , wherein the processing device processes the second signal and determines whether the banking transaction is allowed or disallowed, and further wherein the processing device generates a third signal containing information for at least one of allowing the banking transaction, disallowing the banking transaction, and canceling the banking transaction.

271. The apparatus of claim 270 , wherein the processing device generates a fourth signal for confiscating an automated teller machine account card associated with the at least one of a checking account, a savings account, and an automated teller machine account.

272. The apparatus of claim 267 , wherein the processing device counts a number of unauthorized transactions occurring on the at least one of a checking account, a savings account, and an automated teller machine account.

273. The apparatus of claim 272 , wherein the processing device at least one of cancels a transaction and de-activates the at least one of a checking account, a savings account, and an automated teller machine account, when a pre-determined unauthorized transaction count is reached.

274. The apparatus of claim 267 , wherein the processing device determines whether a hold is placed on the at least one of a checking account, a savings account, and an automated teller machine account, for prohibiting a withdrawal from the at least one of a checking account, a savings account, and an automated teller machine account.

275. The apparatus of claim 267 , wherein the apparatus is at least one of a debit card authorization device, a currency card authorization device, and a smart card authorization device.

276. The apparatus of claim 267 , further comprising: a display device for displaying information regarding the banking transaction.

277. The apparatus of claim 267 , further comprising: a printer for outputting information regarding the banking transaction.

278. The apparatus of claim 267 , wherein the banking transaction is at least one of a clearing transaction, a check clearing transaction, an account charging transaction, and a charge-back transaction.

279. The apparatus of claim 267 , wherein the apparatus is a central processing computer for processing a transaction occurring on at least one of a checking account, checking accounts, a savings account, savings accounts, an automated teller machine account, and automated teller machine accounts.

280. The apparatus of claim 267 , wherein the apparatus processes information regarding at least one of a deposit, a withdrawal, a check cashed, a draft, an ATM deposit, an ATM withdrawal, a charge made against at the least one of a checking account, a savings account, and an automated teller machine account, and a credit made to the at least one of a checking account, a savings account, and an automated teller machine account.

281. The apparatus of claim 267 , wherein the apparatus is utilized on or over at least one of a telecommunication system, a satellite communication system, a radio communication system, a digital communication system, a personal communications services system, the Internet, and the World Wide Web.

282. The apparatus of claim 267 , wherein the transmitter transmits the signal to a plurality of communication devices associated with the individual account holder at least one of simultaneously and sequentially.

283. The apparatus of claim 267 , wherein information contained in the signal is transmitted to the communication device in at least one of a communication transmission, a telephone call, a voice message, a voice mail message, a beeper message, a pager message, a facsimile message, and an answering service message.

284. The apparatus of claim 267 , wherein the banking transaction is a check cashing transaction.

285. The apparatus of claim 267 , wherein the banking transaction is a savings account withdrawal transaction.

286. The apparatus of claim 267 , wherein the banking transaction is an automated teller machine account withdrawal transaction.

287. The apparatus of claim 267 , wherein the transmitter transmits an electromagnetic mail message to a network computer associated with the individual account holder, wherein the electronic mail message contains information regarding the banking transaction.

288. The apparatus of claim 267 , wherein the processing device suspends use of the at least one of a checking account, a savings account, and an automated teller machine account, or suspends use of a card associated with the at least one of a checking account, a savings account, and an automated teller machine account account.

289. The apparatus of claim 267 , wherein the transmitter transmits the signal to at least one of the communication device, a computer, a radio, a car radio, and a television, and further wherein the normal operation of the at least one of the communication device, a computer, a radio, a car radio, and a television, is interrupted to convey the information to the individual account holder.

290. The apparatus of claim 267 , wherein the apparatus comprises a plurality of computers or computer systems.

291. The apparatus of claim 267 , wherein the processing device processes banking transactions for at least one of a plurality of accounts and a plurality of types of accounts.

292. The apparatus of claim 267 , wherein the processing device is at least one of a mainframe computer, a mini-computer, a micro-computer, and a server computer.

293. The apparatus of claim 267 , wherein the processing device generates a periodic transaction record showing transactions on the account for a pre-determined time period, wherein the periodic transaction record is generated at least one of automatically and in response to a request for the periodic transaction record, and further wherein the transmitter transmits the periodic transaction record to the communication device.

294. The apparatus of claim 267 , wherein the apparatus notifies the individual account holder of the banking transaction.

295. The apparatus of claim 267 , wherein the apparatus notifies the individual account holder of a check being presented for payment.

296. The apparatus of claim 267 , wherein the banking transaction is an account settling transaction.

297. The apparatus of claim 267 , wherein the apparatus is programmed for at least one of automatic activation, self-activation, automatic operation, and self-operation.

298. The apparatus of claim 267 , wherein the apparatus notifies the individual account holder that the at least one to a checking account, a savings account, and an automated teller machine account, is overdrawn.

299. The apparatus of claim 267 , wherein the apparatus notifies the individual account holder that the at least one to a checking account, a savings account, and an automated teller machine account, has been charged against.

300. The apparatus of claim 267 , wherein the apparatus notifies the individual account holder that the at least one to a checking account, a savings account, and an automated teller machine account, is being accessed in the banking transaction.

301. A transaction security method, comprising: at least one of inputting information regarding a banking transaction via an input device and receiving information regarding a banking transaction with a receiver, wherein the banking transaction involves at least one of a checking account, a savings account, and an automated teller machine account; processing the information regarding the banking transaction, wherein the information is processed with a processing device, wherein the processing device is capable of allowing or disallowing the banking transaction; generating a signal containing information regarding the banking transaction, wherein the signal is generated by the processing device; and transmitting the signal to a communication device associated with an individual account holder, wherein the signal is transmitted to the communication device in real-time, and further wherein the communication device provides information to the individual account holder regarding the banking transaction, and wherein the communication device is at least one of a beeper, a pager, a telephone, a two-way pager, a reply pager, a home computer, a personal computer, a personal communication device, a personal communication services device, a television, an interactive television, a digital television, a personal digital assistant, a display telephone, a video telephone, a watch, a cellular telephone, a wireless telephone, a mobile telephone, a display cellular telephone, and a facsimile machine.

302. A transaction security apparatus, comprising: a memory device for storing a limitation regarding a use of a communication device on a wireless communication device account or a cellular communication device account, wherein the limitation contains information regarding at least one of a phone number which may be called, a number from which an incoming call may be accepted or received, at least one of a time of day, a specific day, a date, and a time of a month or year, during which a communication device may be utilized, an authorized time of usage of a communication device on the account, an amount of a transaction, a party involved, and a time of an allowed usage, wherein the limitation is automatically received by a receiver, and further wherein the limitation is transmitted to the receiver from a communication device associated with an individual account holder, and further wherein the limitation is automatically stored in the memory device; a processing device for processing information regarding a use of a communication device on a wireless communication device account or a cellular communication device account or an attempt to use a communication device on a wireless communication device account or a cellular communication device account, wherein the processing device is capable of allowing or disallowing the use of the communication device, wherein the processing device determines whether the limitation automatically stored in the memory device is met, and further wherein the processing device generates a signal containing information regarding the use of the communication device or the attempt to use the communication device; and a transmitter for transmitting the signal to a second communication device, wherein the second communication device is associated with an individual account holder, wherein the signal is transmitted to the second communication device in real-time, and further wherein the second communication device provides information to the individual account holder regarding the use of the communication device or the attempt to use the communication device, and further wherein the second communication device is at least one of a beeper, a pager, a telephone, a two-way pager, a reply pager, a home computer, a personal computer, a personal communication device, a personal communication services device, a television, an interactive television, a digital television, a personal digital assistant, a display telephone, a video telephone, a watch, a cellular telephone, a wireless telephone, a mobile telephone, a display cellular telephone, and a facsimile machine.

303. The apparatus of claim 302 , further comprising: a receiver for receiving a second signal from the communication device, wherein the second signal contains information for allowing or disallowing the use of the communication device.

304. The apparatus of claim 302 , wherein the apparatus is a central processing computer for at least one of processing information and maintaining records for wireless communication accounts or cellular communication accounts, wherein the information includes at least one of account usage information and account billing information.

305. The apparatus of claim 302 , further comprising: a display device for displaying information regarding the use of the communication device or the attempt to use the communication device.

306. The apparatus of claim 302 , further comprising: a printer for outputting information regarding the use of the communication device or the attempt to use the communication device.

307. The apparatus of claim 302 , wherein the apparatus is utilized on or over at least one of a telecommunication system, a satellite communication system, a radio communication system, a digital communication system, a personal communications services system, the Internet, and the World Wide Web.

308. The apparatus of claim 302 , wherein the transmitter transmits the signal to a plurality of second communication devices at least one of simultaneously and sequentially.

309. The apparatus of claim 302 , wherein information contained in the signal is transmitted to the second communication device in at least one of a communication transmission, a telephone call, a voice message, a voice mail message, a beeper message, a pager message, a facsimile message, and an answering service message.

310. The apparatus of claim 302 , wherein the transmitter transmits an electronic mail message to a network computer associated with the individual account holder, wherein the electronic mail message contains information regarding the use of the communication device.

311. The apparatus of claim 302 , wherein the processing device processes the second signal and determines whether the use of the communication device is allowed or disallowed.

312. The apparatus of claim 302 , wherein the processing device processes the second signal and determines whether the use of the communication device is allowed or disallowed, and further wherein the processing device at least one of allows the use of the communication device, disallows the use of the communication device, and terminates the use of the communication device.

313. The apparatus of claim 302 , wherein the transmitter transmits the signal to at least one of the second communication device, a computer, a radio, a car radio, and a television, and further wherein the normal operation of the at least one of the second communication device, a computer, a radio, a car radio, and a television, is interrupted to convey the information to the individual account holder.

314. The apparatus of claim 302 , wherein the apparatus comprises a plurality of computers or computer systems.

315. The apparatus of claim 302 , wherein the processing device at least one of de-activates and cancels the wireless communication device account or the cellular communication device account.

316. The apparatus of claim 302 , wherein the processing device processes information for any number of wireless communication device accounts or cellular communication device accounts.

317. The apparatus of claim 302 , wherein the processing device is at least one of a mainframe computer, a mini-computer, a micro-computer, and a server computer.

318. The apparatus of claim 302 , wherein the processing device generates a periodic transaction record showing a use of the communication device during a pre-determined period of time, wherein the periodic transaction record is generated at least one of automatically and in response to a request for the periodic transaction record, and further wherein the transmitter transmits the periodic transaction record to the second communication device.

319. The apparatus of claim 302 , wherein the signal contains information regarding a number called, a time of a call, and a duration of a call.

320. The apparatus of claim 302 , wherein the apparatus notifies the individual account holder of the use of the communication device or the attempt to use the communication device.

321. The apparatus of claim 302 , wherein the apparatus is programmed for at least one of automatic activation, self-activation, automatic operation, and self-operation.

322. A transaction security method, comprising: storing a limitation regarding a use of a communication device on a wireless communication device account or a cellular communication device account in a memory device, wherein the limitation contains information regarding at least one of a phone number which may be called, a number from which an incoming call may be accepted or received, at least one of a time of day, a specific day, a date, and a time of a month or year, during which a communication device may be utilized, an authorized time of usage of a communication device on the account, an amount of a transaction, a party involved, and a time of an allowed usage, wherein the limitation is automatically received by a receiver, wherein the limitation is transmitted to the receiver from a communication device associated with an individual account holder, and further wherein the limitation is automatically stored in the memory device; processing information regarding a use of a communication device on a wireless communication device account or a cellular communication device account or an attempt to use a communication device or a wireless communication device account or a cellular communication device account, wherein the information is processed by a processing device, wherein the processing device is capable of allowing or disallowing the use of the communication device; determining whether the limitation automatically stored in the memory device is met, wherein the processing device determines whether the limitation is met; generating a signal containing information regarding the use of the communication device or the attempt to use the communication device, wherein the signal is generated by the processing device; and transmitting the signal to a second communication device, wherein the second communication device is associated with an individual account holder, wherein the signal is transmitted to the second communication device in real-time, and wherein the second communication device provides information to the individual account holder regarding the use of the communication device or the attempt to use the communication device, and further wherein the second communication device is at least one of a beeper, a pager, a telephone, a two-way pager, a reply pager, a home computer, a personal computer, a personal communication device, a personal communication services device, a television, an interactive television, a digital television, a personal digital assistant, a display telephone, a video telephone, a watch, a cellular telephone, a wireless telephone, a mobile telephone, a display cellular telephone, and a facsimile machine.

323. A transaction security apparatus, comprising: a memory device for storing a limitation regarding a use of a communication device on a wireless communication device account or a cellular communication device account, wherein the limitation contains information regarding at least one of a phone number which may be called, a number from which an incoming call may be accepted or received, at least one of a time of day, a specific day, a date, and a time of month or year, during which a communication device may be utilized, an authorized time of usage of a communication device on the account, an amount of transaction, a party involved, and a time of allowed usage, wherein the limitation is transmitted to a receiver from a communication device is associated with an individual account holder, wherein the limitation is automatically received by the receiver, and further wherein the limitation is automatically stored in the memory device; a processing device for processing information regarding a use of a communication device on the wireless communication device account or the cellular communication device account or an attempt to use a communication device on the wireless communication device account or the cellular communication device account, wherein the processing device utilizes the limitation automatically stored in the memory device in processing the information regarding a use of a communication device on the wireless communication device account or the cellular communication device account or an attempt to use a communication device on the wireless communication device account or the cellular communication device account, and further wherein the processing device generates a signal containing information for allowing or disallowing the use of the communication device.

324. The apparatus of claim 323 , further comprising: a transmitter for transmitting a second signal to a second communication device associated with an individual account holder, wherein the second signal contains information regarding the use of the communication device or the attempt to use the communication device.

325. The apparatus of claim 324 , further comprising: a receiver for receiving a third signal from the second communication device, wherein the third signal contains information for allowing or disallowing the use of the communication device.

326. The apparatus of claim 325 , wherein the processing device processes the third signal and determines whether the use of the communication device is allowed or disallowed.

327. The apparatus of claim 325 , wherein the processing device processes the third signal and determines whether the use of the communication device is allowed or disallowed, and further wherein the processing device at least one of allows the use of the communication device, disallows the use of the communication device, and terminates the sue of the communication device.

328. The apparatus of claim 324 , wherein the transmitter transmits the second signal to a plurality of second communication devices at least one of simultaneously and sequentially.

329. The apparatus of claim 324 , wherein information contained in the second signal is transmitted to the second communication device in at least one of a communication transmission, a telephone call, a voice message, a voice mail message, a beeper message, a pager message, a facsimile message, and an answering service message.

330. The apparatus of claim 324 , wherein the second communication device is at least one of a beeper, a pager, a telephone, a two-way pager, a reply pager, a home computer, a personal computer, a personal communication device, a personal communication services device, a television, an interactive television, a digital television, a personal digital assistant, a display telephone, a video telephone, a watch, a cellular telephone, a wireless telephone, a mobile telephone, a display cellular telephone, and a facsimile machine.

331. The apparatus of claim 324 , wherein the transmitter transmits the second signal to at least one of a second communication device, a computer, a radio, a car radio, and a television, and further wherein the normal operation of the at least one of a second communication device, a computer, a radio, a car radio, and a television, is interrupted to convey the information to the individual account holder.

332. The apparatus of claim 324 , wherein the second signal contains information regarding a number called, a time of a call, and a duration of a call.

333. The apparatus of claim 323 , wherein the apparatus is a central processing computer for at least one of processing information and maintaining records for wireless communication device accounts or cellular communication device accounts, wherein the information includes at least one of account usage information and account billing information.

334. The apparatus of claim 323 , wherein the apparatus is utilized on or over at least one of a telecommunication system, a satellite communication system, a radio communication system, a digital communication system, a personal communication services system, the Internet, and the World Wide Web.

335. The apparatus of claim 323 , further comprising: a transmitter for transmitting an electronic mail message to a network computer associated with the individual account holder, wherein the electronic mail message contains information regarding the use of the communication device or the attempt to use the communication device.

336. The apparatus of claim 323 , wherein the apparatus is programmed for at least one of automatic activation, self-activation, automatic operation, and self-operation.

337. The apparatus of claim 323 , wherein the processing device utilizes a second limitation automatically received from the communication device from which the limitation is received and automatically stored in the memory device in processing information regarding the use of a communication device on the wireless communication device account or the cellular communication device account or the attempt to use a communication device on the wireless communication device account or the cellular communication device account, wherein the second limitation contains information regarding at least one of a geographical area which may be called or accessed, geographical areas which may be called or accessed, a location which may be called or accessed, locations which may be called or accessed, a geographical area or areas from which calls may be received, a location or locations from which calls may be received, a specific phone number or specific phone numbers which may be called, a specific time duration or specific time durations for a phone call, and an authorized time or authorized times for communication device usage.

338. The apparatus of claim 323 , wherein the communication device from which the limitation is received is at least one of a telephone, a touch-tone telephone, a two-way pager, a reply pager, a home computer, a personal computer, a personal communication device, a personal communication services device, a television, an interactive television, a digital television, a personal digital assistant, a display telephone, a video telephone, a watch, a cellular telephone, a wireless telephone, a mobile telephone, a display cellular telephone, and a facsimile machine.

339. The apparatus of claim 323 , wherein the apparatus comprises a plurality of computers or computer systems.

340. A transaction security apparatus, comprising: a memory device for storing a limitation regarding a use of a communication device on a wireless communication device account or a cellular communication device account, wherein the limitation contains information regarding at least one of phone numbers which may be called, numbers from which an incoming call may be accepted or received, at least one of times a day, specific days, dates, and times of month or year, during which a communication device may be utilized, authorized times of usage of a communication device on the account, amount of transaction, parties involved, and times of allowed usage, wherein the limitation is automatically received by a receiver, and further wherein the limitation is transmitted to the receiver from a communication device associated with an individual account holder, and further wherein the limitation is automatically stored in the memory device; a processing device for processing information regarding a use of a communication device on a wireless communication device account or a cellular communication device account or an attempt to use a communication device on a wireless communication device account or a cellular communication device account, wherein the processing device is capable of allowing or disallowing the use of the communication device, wherein the processing device determines whether the limitation automatically stored in the memory device is met, and further wherein the processing device generates a signal containing information regarding the use of the communication device or the attempt to use the communication device; and a transmitter for transmitting the signal to a second communication device, wherein the second communication device is associated with an individual account holder, wherein the signal is transmitted to the second communication device in real-time, and further wherein the second communication device provides information to the individual account holder regarding the use of the communication device or the attempt to use the communication device, and further wherein the second communication device is at least one of a beeper, a pager, a telephone, a two-way pager, a reply pager, a home computer, a personal computer, a personal communication device, a personal communication services device, a television, an interactive television, a digital television, a personal digital assistant, a display telephone, a video telephone, a watch, a cellular telephone, a wireless telephone, a mobile telephone, a display cellular telephone, and a facsimile machine.